KWO writes to UN Secretary General Kofi Annan to urge the Security Council to uphold its responsibility to protect women, children and civilians in Burma. Report
30 May 2006
KWO reports on the current situation in Karen State and along the Thai/Burma border, and the wave of new refugees. Report
KWO calls for international women's groups to press for an immediate UN Security Council resolution on Burma. Statement
1 May 2006
KWO releases a statement about the increase in atrocities being committed by the SPDC against the Karen people, including women and children. Full Statement (English)
Pioneering women village heads targeted for systematic abuse by junta’s troops across Eastern Burma
25 February 2010
Walking Amongst Sharp Knivesreveals previously unreported abuses taking place against ethnic Karen women in Burma.
The practice of the Burmese Army to execute village heads has led to traditional Karen culture being turned upside-down, with women now being appointed village chiefs as they are seen as less likely to be killed. However, this change has put women in the frontline of human rights abuses. These abuses constitute crimes against humanity and war crimes.
The Karen Women's
Organisation was formed in 1949 and has a membership
of over 49,000 women. KWO is a community-based
organisation of Karen women working in development
and relief in the refugee camps on the Thai border
and with IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons)
and women inside Burma. Since our formation in 1949
we have expanded our focus from one of purely social
welfare to try to encourage an awareness of Women's
Rights and to promote women’s participation
in the community decision making and political processes.
The objectives of the KWO
To assist women in the endeavour to be free from all forms of oppression.
To promote and empower women in all spheres of life, including education and general living standards.
To encourage women to participate in the struggle for freedom, democracy and equality.
To develop women's knowledge, ability and skills, including political and organisational skills.
To achieve the rights of women and equal status with men.
To promote and maintain Karen culture and traditions.
To care for the well-being of girls and children.
KWO aims
to empower women through offering various capacity building trainings
to teach skills, build confidence and create new
opportunities so that women will be better able
to solve problems. We are working hard
to educate ourselves and our communities so that
we can work more effectively and advocate for
our struggle on the international stage.
We believe that women’s
contribution is an essential factor in the peace-building
and national reconciliation processes of Burma.
